What's more important? That the photographer included the tops of our heads or the front of the book? I think you know the answer. That's Christine Dougherty on the left, who came through town last week with her copy of IRBITS. .

We’re all guilty of communicating poorly at some point. It’s something I struggle with constantly. With thousands of subscribers, an active blog, and loads of ideas, I often find email that has been sitting unanswered in my inbox for more than a week. Or I respond to an email when I’m not thinking clearly. I also have to deal with a lot of negotiations, agreements, and contracts. Over the years, I have learned to talk on the phone with someone before sending a workshop proposal. There’s just something about hearing that voice on the other end of the line that (1) helps me understand where they’re coming from and (2) lets them hear my sincerity. But after the workshop contract is signed, I usually assume that they’re doing what we laid out in the plan and what they signed off on in the agreement. Bad idea. Without some gentle nudging along the way, many of my venues don’t publicize until it’s too late. Another really bad idea. It takes a lot of effort to do this stuff right. To fill a workshop, to install an exhibition, or to complete a commission. You have to stay on top of things, which is difficult if your life and office are in disarray. Check out the Get Organized class below if this might help you. Best wishes to everyone in the U.S. for a Happy 4th of July! And, remember, the Tour de France starts on the 5th. Keep an eye on Team Slipstream Chipotle.

Go! Get Organized

Online class begins July 9

If your desk is a fright and you crave peace of mind, join us and get organized before the fall art season begins. Conquer piles, make your task list work for you, and catch up with filing. Read all of the details: http://artbizcoach.com/classes/organize.html 

Breakthrough Preview Call

Tuesday, July 15, 3pm ET

► View all upcoming classes and events.

Assume Nothing, Polish Your Communication

You know what it’s like. You both read or saw the same thing. You both participated in the same conversation. But each of you took away something completely different. It happens every day. And it really mucks things up. Because after you talk or email, you go your separate ways and forge your paths based on what you THINK you heard and on what you THINK the other person is acting on.

Assume nothing. Polish your communication.

Whether you’re ironing out terms for an exhibit, workshop, commission, or gallery contract, protect your interests by using these four tips to keep you from making the wrong assumptions.

1. If you’re on the phone, repeat to the person on the other end of the line what you thought you heard--rephrasing it for clarification. After you get off the phone, send an email stating the same thing. Ask that the recipient confirm receipt and content of the email. (This last step is important! You can send the email, but only the other person can tell you if it was received.)

2. If it’s an email, try something similar. Respond not just with a Yes or No, but restate what you think is being requested. Again, ask the recipient to confirm the receipt and content of the email.

3. Use snail mail. If your relationship involves the exchange of money or a long-term commitment, consider sending two hard copies of a letter, agreement, or contract. Spell out all of the details as you understand them. Sign both copies and leave a place for the other party to sign them. Include an SASE and ask that one signed copy is returned to you. Write a personal note on the top: “This is how I understood our conversation. Do you agree? Please make adjustments as needed.”

4. Meet face-to-face. It’s much easier to understand intent when you’re looking into someone’s eyes. Whenever you can, negotiate in person and follow up with an email or written agreement.